Exercising 3 months post laparotomy

[Evalina93]

So, i had my surgery three months ago, and a desperate to get back into exercise! I went back to the gym yesterday (and took it easy) but i am now EXHAUSTED which feels ridiculous. Anyone got any tips, or any idea of time scale to be able to get back into exercise normally?

The incision area does ache now so i am thinking maybe i should just leave off for a bit longer, but patience is not one of my virtues!

[MediocreMind]

Hi Evalina,

I didn't go back to the gym until 5 months after my laparotomy (in Feb) and then avoided doing anything too hard on my stomach muscles, concentrating on good form and using my core without directly straining the muscles with crunches etc. I was just listening to my body and would stop as soon as it gave me a sign it wasn't happy, as I didn't want to set my recovery back. If your gym has any personal trainers I'd recommend having a conversation with them as I found them really helpful with suggestions of exercises I didn't normally do that were more appropriate.

I've just had a laparoscopy last week so hoping I can get back a bit quicker this time!

So yeah from my experience I would recommend concentrating on improvement each week rather than trying to get back to where you were before surgery asap. But mostly listen to your body as ultimately it knows if you're pushing too hard.

Good luck and don't forget you're feeling tired because your body is using all it's energy to heal.

X

[venusx5]

Hi Evalina,

I don't think there is a right time scale for getting back to the gym etc but the best advice is to listen to your body, I wouldn't necessarily be aiming for the gym yet but easing yourself in, start off by walking and build yourself up to going back to the gym you don't want to hurt yourself by pushing too soon. It will feel like your back to square one again - i know i've been there! If your like myself though the gym is somewhat a relief it's one of the key things to help me mentally with my endo! Make sure your stretching properly after even if it is just a walk, maybe treat yourself with a nice cosey bath afterwards and ensure you are eating right and getting enough energy this will all help towards getting back into a normal routine again

[Lyneet]

Hi Evalina, I went to the gym 4 months after my laparoscopy surgery. I did walk like 3 days out of the week 1 month after surgery. I would take it easy and don't overdue it just listen to your body and you will be ok. I started to take vitamins and eat foods that give me energy like bananas,oatmeal and almonds. Best wishes to great health!